IDF Chief of Staff Admits Military Failure on October 7

On the third anniversary of the October 7th Hamas attack, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir issued a special order of the day to soldiers and commanders, acknowledging the military's failure to protect Israeli civilians on that fateful morning. Zamir stated that the IDF "failed in its supreme mission to protect the citizens of the State of Israel." He described the devastation wrought by the enemy in communities across the western Negev, turning fields, orchards, kibbutzim, and towns into battlegrounds and sites of massacre and abduction.

The Chief of Staff paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, security personnel, and civilians, as well as the wounded and bereaved families. He emphasized the IDF's obligation to continue investigating the events of October 7th and to implement the lessons learned. Zamir pledged that the military would work to prevent Israel's enemies from strengthening and repeating such a surprise attack.

Zamir also highlighted the heroism and resilience displayed by IDF soldiers, reservists, and civilian employees who responded to the attack, as well as the broader Israeli society's unity. He noted that since October 7th, the IDF has been engaged in a prolonged campaign, striking enemies and dismantling threats, while also adapting and developing new methods to counter evolving dangers. He vowed that the military would not allow enemies to grow unchecked, would identify threats as they emerge, and would strike them with determination and power.

Concluding his message, Zamir referred to the soldiers as heroes and the protectors of the nation. He expressed pride in leading the army and committed to honoring the memory of the fallen and the lessons of October 7th to build a future where Israeli citizens can live in security. He pledged to continue serving the people, strengthening the IDF for future challenges, upholding its values, and ensuring the nation's victory and enduring presence in its land.